Setting Axles In order to be able to set an axle properly, one must have the right principle underlying the method. I hold that the fundamental principle is the “plumb spoke.” There are different opinions in regard to what is meant by the “plumb spoke.” Some hold that the measure should be a gravity measure […]

“If you have too many irons in the fire, some of them will burn.” In putting on new tires, proceed as follows: First, straighten the iron edgewise, then lay it on the floor and roll the wheel over it for measure, and cut the tire from one to two inches longer than the wheel will […]

Tongs Even blacksmiths’ tongs are now manufactured and sold to the smith, but all older smiths prefer to make their own tongs. Every apprentice should experiment some in making tongs, for it is a good exercise in learning the trade. To make a small pair of tongs, take 3/4-inch square Swede iron. Place the bar […]

In making square angles, all new beginners and all third-rate men bend in the vise, but as a rule the wise smith is not much of a smith. If the piece to be bent is common American iron, it makes a very poor job to bend in the vise, for this reason: that the sharp […]

Set Hammer The set hammer is one of the easiest tools made. Take a piece of tool steel 1 1/2 square inches. Punch the hole as when making chisels. Place the set hammer over the bottom fuller cornerwise, the top fuller on the upper edge. Have the helper strike a blow or two, and the grooves, […]

Making Horse Nails The making of horse nails is a good exercise while learning the elementary steps in forging. Get a nail- rod 3/16 x 1/2 inch Swedish iron or mild steel. Point the rod, or draw out the nail to the length desired. Then place the rod edgewise on the anvil, with the rod […]

Fagot-Welding Fagot-welding was much practiced by the smith in times past. When one’piece of iron is not large enough for the work, two or more pieces are laid on top of each other and welded together. Sometimes many small pieces are put up in a bundle, and held together with wire. It was claimed by […]

Wrought iron and steel will fuse when the proper temperature and the right quality of the temperature is attained. We often read in the trade journals and in books, “Iron or steel will weld when hot enough;” but the metal may be hot enough, be of the proper heat, and still it will refuse to […]

Forging “Strike while the iron is hot,” is an old and well-known proverb; but I have coined a new maxim, “Strike till the iron gets hot.” It is true that, in forging, we can do little with cold iron, but with smaller articles we can pound the heat into them. Take a piece of Swede […]

Hardening We shall begin the experiment in hardening with the simplest tool,—a chisel. We suppose you must dress the chisel first; then be careful, for the trouble begins with tool steel the moment you place it in the fire. Now place the chisel in the fire, far in, so the extreme edge will reach over […]